Keep us in picture on trams progress

TOWN CENTRE PARTNERSHIP

BUSINESSES must be kept up-to-date with the progress of Oldham’s Metrolink extension so that they can minimise the impact of any disruption.

The Mumps line is due to open this year, followed by a town centre route in 2014.

Spindles and Town Square Shopping Centre manager Mike Flanagan said: “Communication is the all-important thing. It doesn’t necessary follow that everyone will know what is happening when, that’s not only the businesses in the town but visitors as well.”

Michelle Carr, the council’s assistant director of economic development and planning, said a communication plan was being developed.

She added: “There are a lot of things to think about; where bus stops might have to move to, our street cleaning schedule, emergency planning. We think a weekly bulletin will be important.”




METROSHUTTLE buses running through Oldham town centre have not yet been ruled out by transport chiefs.

It was reported that the buses — which would run from Mumps into Oldham’s main shopping area once the trams along the loop line are in place — had been abandoned. Similar schemes already take place in Manchester, Bolton, and Stockport.

Schemes are introduced where councils and their partners can fund the majority of the cost.

GMPTE bus and rail director Michael Renshaw said: “We have had discussions with Oldham Council regarding the introduction of a Metroshuttle service in Oldham town centre.

“We would be happy to continue those discussions, should the council wish to and, if a firm proposition can be developed, to take that proposal to Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority.”




BUSINESSES and individuals have pledged £900,000 towards the running costs of Oldham’s new £5million youth centre. Construction has started on the centre which will be called Mahdlo on the site of the old Marjorie Lees Health Centre in Egerton Street.